Two prominent leaders of the Kingdom of God Global Church, formerly known as Joshua Media Ministries International, have been arrested and charged with orchestrating a complex, multi-million dollar scheme involving forced labor, money laundering, and human trafficking. Michelle Brannon, 56, identified as the Executive Director, was apprehended at a church-owned mansion in the affluent Avila neighborhood of Hillsborough County, Florida. David Taylor, 53, who refers to himself as “Apostle” and heads the organization, was arrested in North Carolina. These arrests were the culmination of a coordinated, multi-state operation involving FBI raids on church properties, including a hotel in Houston, Texas.
The 10-count federal indictment alleges that Taylor and Brannon exploited vulnerable individuals by compelling them to work in church-operated call centers across several states, including Florida, Texas, Missouri, and Michigan. The call centers were the engine of the alleged criminal enterprise, generating approximately $50 million in donations since 2014. These donations, according to the Justice Department, were solicited under the guise of religious giving but were subsequently diverted to fund lavish lifestyles for Taylor and Brannon. The indictment details expenditures on luxury properties, high-end vehicles, and recreational equipment such as boats, jet skis, and ATVs.
Beyond the financial exploitation, the indictment paints a disturbing picture of coercive control and manipulation. Victims were allegedly compelled to work long hours without pay, not only in the call centers but also as personal servants for Taylor, referred to within the organization as “armour bearers.” Their movements and daily lives were strictly controlled, confined to the call centers or designated “ministry” houses, with permission required to leave. The indictment further alleges that victims were forced to facilitate Taylor’s access to women and ensure they used emergency contraception, highlighting a disturbing dimension of control and exploitation extending beyond labor.
The arrests and subsequent legal proceedings represent a significant effort by federal authorities to combat human trafficking and financial crimes. The Justice Department, FBI, and IRS Criminal Investigation division collaborated in a multi-agency operation spanning several states. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon emphasized the Department of Justice’s commitment to eradicating human trafficking and seeking justice for victims. U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon Jr. underscored the importance of interagency cooperation and the utilization of all available legal tools to prosecute traffickers. Acting Special Agent in Charge Reuben Coleman of the FBI Detroit Field Office highlighted the extensive collaboration between various FBI field offices and other law enforcement partners.
The case also underscores the intersection of financial crime and human trafficking. Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd of IRS Criminal Investigation highlighted how money laundering, in this instance, facilitated the alleged human trafficking ring and enabled a luxurious lifestyle masked by religious ministry. The charges against Taylor and Brannon – forced labor, conspiracy to commit forced labor, and conspiracy to commit money laundering – each carry a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison, reflecting the severity of the alleged crimes. The potential fines associated with these charges are substantial, reaching up to $250,000 for forced labor and conspiracy to commit forced labor, and up to $500,000 or twice the value of the laundered funds for conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Following her arrest, Brannon appeared in federal court in Tampa, Florida, without legal representation. She informed the judge of her existing legal counsel based in St. Louis and Oklahoma but reported a lack of contact with them. The court’s attempts to reach these attorneys were unsuccessful. As a result, the judge continued the hearing to allow Brannon time to secure local legal representation in the Tampa area. This delay emphasizes the importance of legal representation in navigating complex federal charges and ensuring due process. The unfolding legal proceedings will determine the veracity of the allegations and ultimately hold those responsible accountable for their actions. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing fight against human trafficking and the sophisticated methods employed by perpetrators, often cloaked in seemingly legitimate enterprises.
